Dedicated to all honest seekers of truth.

In many ways this book represents a personal journey which had vague beginnings in adolescence. It gathered momentum in mid life when I made a definite stand by repudiating my previous indoctrination and accepted the evidence of learning. But the journey did not stop there. It has been a growing experience continuously affecting my attitudes to society and greatly adding to my sense of personal dignity and happiness. I have been fortunate in the choice of my wife Elaine. For over twenty five years she has given unstinted support and practical help. Our time together has been an ongoing adventure of discovery and joy.

I must thank those who have given encouragement and suggestions to produce this book. They include family members and friends who have expressed keen interest and enthusiasm. I am particularly grateful to Sarah McCready for literary help and Allan dark who has given technical assistance. My thanks to authors and publishers who have given permission to quote from their works. I would like to thank the very many authors of fine books who have greatly assisted with valuable information. They have helped to liberate me from the mental and emotional prison in which I was raised. The result has been freedom and a greatly enhanced enjoyment of life.

Steve Cooper 1991